Last updated: 2026-10-10
2018 Lexus NX Reliability Report
The 2018 Lexus NX has good reliability, well above other 2018 SUVs, but owners report fuel pump failures that stall the engine without warning.
Recalls
1
Complaints
36
Complaint Rate
5.8per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$551
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,750–$2,900
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Good standing in the middle of the NX range, with one fuel system recall and owner reports of fuel pump stalls and low-speed acceleration.
Top Issues to Watch
- SERVICE BRAKES (4)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 received a facelift update for the First generation (AZ10; 2014).
- Changes: Revised front bumper; Grille changes; Updated headlamps; Revamped taillights; New dashboard design; Increased equipment levels.
- Year 4 in this generation (2015–2021).
- 1st generation NX (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2015: First generation (AZ10; 2014) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2018: This Model Year (Refresh)
2018 received a facelift update for the First generation (AZ10; 2014).
Should You Buy the 2018 Lexus NX?
Reliability is good for this year. Against other 2018 SUVs it stands well above average, and among the nine scored NX years it sits in the middle. The 2019 rates about the same, so neither year has a clear edge. Owners filed 36 complaints, and the federal crash test gave it 5 of 5 stars.
The complaints that matter involve stalling. Fuel pump failure cuts engine power with no warning, sometimes at highway speed. The check engine and traction control lights come on, the car drops into limp mode, then stalls. One owner cites code P0087 and says the failure came back after a pump replacement. Federal recall records show one recall, in the gasoline fuel system. Four brake complaints describe sudden acceleration at low speed with the pedal going to the floor, and two involved crashes. One torn fuel hose leaked heavily enough that the fire department was called.
Ask for the VIN's recall status and any fuel pump repair records. A 2019 is worth pricing alongside it, though it has two recalls on record.
Compared to the 2019 Lexus NX, which scored 2 points lower.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −SERVICE BRAKES: Car accelerates suddenly at low speed and the brakes fail to stop it (4 complaints)
- −FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM: Fuel pump failure cuts engine power and stalls the car, sometimes at highway... (3 complaints)
Compare 2018 Lexus NX With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- SERVICE BRAKES (4)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2018 Lexus NX carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
5.8
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 27.1
Safety Incidents
4
Crashes
0
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Lexus NX Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2018 Lexus NX. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Consequence
If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
Buying a used 2018 Lexus NX? Check its history first
Service brakes problems lead owner complaints about the 2018 Lexus NX, and 1 recall was issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Lexus NX NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.0%
Safety Technologies
Lexus NXRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$551
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Lexus NX Resale Value
The Lexus NX is estimated to retain about 65.8% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Lexus NX model overall and is not specific to the 2018 model year.
- Value Retained
- 65.8%
- Depreciation
- 34.2%
- Listings Analyzed
- 113
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Lexus NX depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.com2018 Lexus NX Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Air Bag Clockspring Replacement | $1,037 – $1,094 |
| Air Conditioning Refrigerant Recover | $61 – $90 |
| Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing | $153 – $224 |
| Air Conditioning System Leak Inspection | $153 – $224 |
| Transmission Position Sensor Replacement | $322 – $386 |
| Headlight Bulb Replacement | $289 – $317 |
| Body Control System Diagnosis & Testing | $61 – $90 |
| Fuel Evaporative Canister Replacement | $707 – $771 |
| Horn Replacement | $395 – $509 |
| Intercooler Replacement | $1,069 – $1,368 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
24–25 MPG
Running cost: $3,300–$3,450/yr
Fuel + repair
22 city / 27–28 hwy MPG
Hybrid
31 MPG
Running cost: $2,500/yr
Fuel + repair
33 city / 30 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX 300 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 22 | 28 | 25 | $2,750 |
| NX 300 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 22 | 28 | 24 | $2,900 |
| NX 300 AWD F Sport 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 22 | 27 | 24 | $2,900 |
Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX 300h AWD 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S6) | 33 | 30 | 31 | $1,950 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Lexus NX.
Ask for service records showing any fuel pump replacement, and whether the stalling came back afterward.
Scan for stored trouble codes, especially P0087, and ask about past check engine or traction control lights.
Start the car and confirm no brake failure warning appears on the dash.
In an empty lot, brake gently at low speed and confirm the pedal stays firm with no surge.
Let the engine idle for several minutes and watch the tachometer for fluctuating RPM or stalling.
Turn the wheel lock to lock while parked and listen for clunks or unusual heaviness.
Look under the car with the engine running for fuel leaks or chewed fuel hoses.
Open the driver's door and check the lower interior beam for any inward dent.
2018 Lexus NX Common Problems by Component
36 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaintsSafety-relatedThe car accelerates suddenly at low speed and the brakes fail to stop it. Drivers describe the pedal going to the floor, the engine racing, and shifting into Park doing nothing to stop the car. Two of the four complaints involve crashes and one involves an injury. Most happened while pulling into a driveway, at a stop sign, or in stop-and-go traffic. At least one owner says the manufacturer's inspection found no sign of brake failure. A separate report describes a brake failure warning lighting up at startup at 17,000 miles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaintsFuel pump failure cuts engine power and stalls the car, sometimes at highway speed. There is no warning beforehand. Then the check engine and traction control lights come on, the car drops into limp mode, it stops responding to the gas pedal, and it stalls. One report cites code P0087, fuel rail pressure too low. Owners describe the failure coming back after the pump was replaced. A stall in traffic or on a fast road carries real crash risk.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsA dash warning to get service appears, and the car then hesitates at idle, responds poorly to the gas pedal, and stalls, leaving the driver to be towed. Another pattern is a dragging noise from the front driver side when braking in stop-and-go traffic, plus clunks when reversing or turning the wheel at a standstill. The dealer called that noise normal fuel movement in the tank. One complaint objects to how the reverse camera works.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaintsThe engine stalls without warning, including on the highway, and dealers often cannot reproduce or diagnose the cause. Complaints describe repeated stalls over several months, near-accidents, and cars left unrepaired while owners wait on the manufacturer. One case began within weeks of ownership. A separate complaint describes a passenger side mirror bursting out of its housing with wires hanging out at low speed. The dealer suggested earlier impact damage.
FUEL SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
2 complaintsTwo separate fuel problems appear here. In one, the car stalls at highway speed with a Check Oil message and a flashing master warning light, then keeps stalling and cannot go faster than 40 mph. A dealer traced it to the fuel pump on a very high-mileage car that already had a replacement pump. In the other, a torn fuel hose leaks heavily under a parked car with the engine running. The leak was serious enough that the fire department was called, and the dealer blamed rodents for chewing the hose.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsTurning the wheel becomes hard and keeps getting worse, with no warning lights or messages. The dealer could not confirm the problem. The other complaint filed here actually describes engine trouble. The RPM fluctuates at a stop, the fuel injectors and gaskets get replaced, and later the car shakes badly and briefly loses power while climbing a grade. Heavy steering and a sudden loss of power can both make the car harder to control.
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsA lower interior beam in the driver's door caves inward like a dent even though the car was never in an accident. Dealers cannot explain it, and the owner worries about how well the door would protect the driver in a side impact. A separate complaint describes the lower door panels collecting heavy dirt and snow, and dirt building up in the gap between the rear door and the wheel arch trim.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaintWhile driving regularly on the highway my sunroof spontaneously shattered. There were no warning signs and no visible debris on the road that could have hit it. This is the SECOND instance of this happening with this vehicle (2018 Lexus NX 300) within three years. The sudden loud sound is dangerous as it can cause someone to jerk the steering wheel. Also, if the sunroof is open, glass could rain down on the occupants of the vehicle. My sunroof was closed at the time, but my vehicle littered glass over the roadway while trying to exit safely. The dealership refuses to take responsibility for the manufacturing defects in their sunroofs.
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintHVAC Evaporator Drain Hose keeps getting clogged resulting in the overflow of water into the cabin driver side floor. When using the AC or Defroster this could be a quart of water or more which can result in mold/mildew on carpet and pad. Lexus wants $6000 to repair and replace (they will not repair with out replacing all of the carpet and pad). This is a known issue and Lexus have even issued a "fix" AT THE CONSUMER EXPENSE. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/20...31864-9999.pdf If a recall were issued for the recommended part (ARINIXTip) to be installed then the consumer could save thousands of dollars for the replacing of carpet and pad plus labor.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedI WAS INVOLVED IN HIGH IMPACT FRONT END COLLISION ON A HIGHWAY . LADY STOP ON HIGHWAY IN FRONT OF ME. MY CAR IS TOTALED A COMPLETE LOSS. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED . EVERYONE AT THE SCENE INCLUDING WITNESSES COMMENT THEIR DISBELIEF . EMT AMBULANCE STAFF ON LOOKERS ETC ASKED WHY DIDN'T AIRBAGS DEPLOY .
Best & Worst Lexus NX Years
Best Lexus NX Years to Buy
Based on reliability index score2021
2020
2018
(Current Model)
Lexus NX Years to Avoid
No Lexus NX years are statistical outliers in our data.
Scores stay between 75 and 88 across 9 scored model years.
Lexus NX Reliability Score Trend
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2021 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2022 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 88/100 | Excellent |
Lexus NX Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Lexus NX reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Lexus NX?
Does the 2018 Lexus NX have fuel pump problems?
Has the 2018 Lexus NX been recalled?
Is the 2018 Lexus NX better than the 2019?
Don’t buy a 2018 Lexus NX without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2018 Lexus NX
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2018 Lexus NX does best on recall impact (88/100) and worst on complaint severity (73/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Lexus NX.
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